The Steam Controller does away with thumbsticks, replacing them with two high resolution trackpads. A new generation of super-precise haptic feedback, employing dual linear resonant actuators has also been implemented to ensure the physicality of playing games with a controller is not lost. Additionally the Steam Controller also has a four quadrant touchpad in the middle.

According to Valve every game on Steam from the past, the present and the future will be playable with the Steam Controller. To be a beta tester for the controller you only need to sign-up to be a beta tester for the Steam Machines. Much like their console, Valve has said that the Steam Controller will be open and hackable.

Traditional gaming console controller have never been able to match the accuracy and functionality of the standard PC input peripherals. That is also the reason why many genre of games, for example Real Time Strategy titles, have never made it onto the console but remain massively popular on the PC platform. Valve claims that the Steam Controller is able to offer greater precision and accuracy than present controllers. They also believe it will be able to replace the keyboard and mouse if the gamers want to make the switch.